ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

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what is a root canal?

Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure performed by dentists and endodontists. Depending on your general dentist's preference and comfort level, a patient may be referred to an endodontist for completion of the procedure. Regardless, the goal of this procedure is to retain a natural tooth which would otherwise require extraction.

The root canal of a tooth is the hollow space in the center of the tooth and root(s) which contains the soft dental pulp (root canal tissue). This tissue was primarily involved in the formation of the tooth during childhood. The dental pulp is basically composed of blood vessels, nerve, and connective tissue.

A tooth can develop the need for root canal therapy from a variety of reasons. Commonly, a history of deep decay, deep decay and subsequent restoration-fillings, crowns, etc., can ultimately lead to an inflammation and/or infection of the soft root canal tissue over time. Depending on the severity, the presence of a crack or history of dental trauma may also create the need for root canal therapy.

Root canal treatment involves the removal of the inflamed or infected tissue in the central portion of a tooth. A biocompatible filling material is then placed within the disinfected root canal system. Eventually, a permanent crown or permanent filling material will need to be placed to protect the tooth.